House approves cybersecurity bill over Obama veto threat

The House approved controversial cybersecurity legislation that the Obama Administration has threatened to veto. Members approved the Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act (CISPA), HR 3523, in a 248-168 vote that split both parties somewhat.

The bill was supported by 42 Democrats, while 28 Republicans opposed it. The House approved the bill after making a number of changes aimed at limiting the way the government could use the information that companies provide. CISPA would make it easier for companies to share information with the government about the threats facing their networks. Supporters — Republicans and Democrats alike — said the proposal is a reasonable compromise between the need for privacy and security. Republicans did allow several amendments to be considered that narrowed the scope of the bill, including proposals from members of both parties.

Here’s a look at approved amendments:

• Mike Pompeo (R-KS), to clarify the bill's liability provision that the use of cybersecurity systems is the use of these systems to obtain cyber threat information. Accepted voice vote.
• Mike Rogers (R-MI), to clarify that regulatory information already required to be provided remains subject to FOIA requests, as under current law. Passed 412-0.
• Ben Quayle (R-AZ), to limit the use of shared cyber threat information for cybersecurity, investigation of related crimes, protection of people from danger, protection of minors from child pornography, and protection of U.S. national security. Passed 410-3.
• Justin Amash (R-MI), to prohibit the federal government from using library records, firearms sales records, and tax returns from private entities under the bill. Passed 415-0.
• Mick Mulvaney (R-SC), to authorize the federal government to create reasonable procedures to protect privacy and civil liberties, consistent with the need for cybersecurity. Passed 416-0.
• Jeff Flake (R-AZ), to require the development of a list of all federal agencies receiving information about cyber threats. Accepted voice vote.
• Mike Pompeo (R-KS), to clarify that nothing in the bill would alter existing authorities or provide new authority to federal agencies to install or use cybersecurity systems on private sector networks. Accepted voice vote.
• Rob Woodall (R-GA), to add language stating that entities who choose not to participate in the voluntary information sharing authorized by the bill are not subject to new liabilities. Accepted voice vote.
• Bob Goodlatte (R-VA), narrowing the definitions on what information may be identified, obtained and shared. Passed 414-1.
• Michael Turner (R-OH), to make a technical correction to definitions in the bill. Accepted voice vote.
• Mick Mulvaney (R-SC), to sunset the provisions of the bill five years after enactment. Passed 413-3.